Accountant Jobs in San Mateo, CA

Job Summary

The San Mateo County Event Center & Fair is a premier public assembly facility that hosts a diverse range of events, produces the annual San Mateo County Fair, operates the Jockey Club satellite wagering facility, and manages full-service catering and food service operations.

The Bookkeeper II (Full Charge) is responsible for a broad range of accounting functions, with primary responsibility for payroll administration, fixed asset accounting, inventory management, and financial reporting. This position also supports general ledger activities, account reconciliations, month-end and year-end close processes, and annual audit preparation.

Reporting directly to the Controller, the Bookkeeper II plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the Accounting Department and serves as a backup to the Controller when needed. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, analytical, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Maintain a thorough understanding of the organization’s accounting systems, financial reporting processes, and general ledger structure.
• Perform month-end, quarter-end, and year-end closing activities, including accruals, journal entries, account reconciliations, depreciation schedules, variance analysis, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports and respond to financial information requests from management.
• Assist the Controller in preparing annual budgets, forecasts, special projects, and process improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and maintain key internal controls to ensure compliance, accountability, and operational integrity.
• Administer bi-weekly payroll processing, pension contributions, payroll tax filings, and related reporting requirements.
• Maintain fixed asset records and oversee inventory control processes, particularly for culinary and food service operations.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), regulatory requirements, and applicable tax laws.
• Support annual financial audits and assist in preparing audit schedules and supporting documentation.
• Provide cross-functional accounting support and serve as backup for Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Purchasing, Revenue Accounting, and Cash Handling functions.
• Work extended or irregular hours during the annual San Mateo County Fair and select events as required.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

This position requires comprehensive knowledge of all accounting functions, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Revenue Accounting, Purchasing, Pension Administration, and Cash Handling. Bookkeeper II must be capable of managing workflow priorities, maintaining business continuity, and providing departmental coverage during staff absences and peak operational periods.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Experience with accounting software systems, financial reporting, budgeting, inventory management, and fixed asset accounting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and perform effectively under pressure.
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, dependability, and sound judgment.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships across departments and all levels of the organization.
• Willingness to learn operational aspects of the event industry, including admissions, ticketing, carnival reconciliation, food service audits, exhibitor programs, and credentialing processes.
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment with changing priorities.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible accounting or bookkeeping experience.
• Experience processing payroll and maintaining payroll tax compliance preferred.

Benefits

The San Mateo County Event Center provides a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off and holiday pay; and retirement benefits, including a voluntary 403(b) plan and a profit-sharing plan upon meeting eligibility requirements.